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Abstract:

The present invention concerns a multi-functional carry pack assembly
intended to equip fire fighters when fighting fires in wildland areas.
The carry pack assembly of the invention comprises: a) a carry frame,
preferably with at least two straps of shoulder strap type resting on the
shoulders, and at least one cross-strap joined to said shoulder type
straps and acting as belt, b) a first element of pouch type fixed or
fixable to the carry frame, able to carry at least one water reservoir
and a "hands-free" hydration system connected or connectable to said
water reservoir, and c) at least one second element of pouch type fixed
or fixable onto the carry frame and able to contain a protective, action
or survival garment, a protective mask or at least one other accessory.

Claims:

1. A multi-functional carry pack assembly for fire fighters comprising:a)
a carry frame intended to be worn on the torso, and formed of straps,
preferably at least two straps of shoulder strap type resting on the
shoulders, and at least one cross-strap joined to said shoulder type
straps and acting as belt,b) a first element of pouch type fixed or
fixable to the carry frame and able to contain at least one water
reservoir and a "hands-free" hydration system connected or connectable to
said water reservoir, andc) at least one second element of pouch type
fixed or fixable onto the carry frame and able to contain a protective,
action or survival garment, a protective mask or at least one other
accessory,wherein the constituent materials of the frame and elements of
pouch type are heat-resistant and fireproof,and each second element of
pouch type is provided with a quick-opening system, giving a fire fighter
direct access to its content, without requiring removal of the carry
frame.

2. The pack assembly according to claim 1 wherein the elements of pouch
type are fixed onto the frame according to necessary volume, either
cross-wise for example, simultaneously on two straps of shoulder strap
type, or longitudinally, for example, on a single strap of shoulder strap
type or on a cross-strap.

3. The pack assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first element of
pouch type comprises two side extensions and in that it is fixed
cross-wise on the frame, e.g., on the outer surface of two side straps in
the upper part of the torso, the two side extensions lying in the upper
part of the shoulders.

4. The pack assembly according to claim 3, wherein said first element is
fixed by two fastenings onto the frame so that it rests on the upper part
of the back, and that one of the fastenings is accessible to the user and
is detachable so that said first element can be pivoted towards the
front, in particular for filling of the water reservoir.

5. The pack assembly according to claim 3, wherein the "hands-free"
hydration system consist of a drinking tube fixed or fixable directly or
via a side extension onto the frame, e.g., on the outer surface of a side
strap so that its end tip is accessible to the fire fighter's mouth.

6. The pack assembly according to claim 1, wherein, as accessory, it
comprises respiratory protection gear comprising a filtering system,
e.g., a filtering cartridge, placed in the first or a second element of
pouch type, and a connecting tube connecting the filtering system to a
connecting end piece, in particular, a mouth piece or a mask, to be
applied to the face, either a "half-mask" or a "quarter-mask".

7. The pack assembly according to claim 1, wherein, as accessory, it
comprises respiratory protection gear solely comprising a mask, called an
exhalation mask, associated with a filtering cartridge and placed in a
second element of pouch type.

8. The pack assembly according to claim 6, wherein the filtering system
particularly, the filtering cartridge, is placed sideways in the pouch,
the air intake preferably protected by a grating being directed
sidewards.

9. The pack assembly according to claim 1, wherein, in a second element of
pouch type, it contains an item of protective clothing of action gear
type consisting of a jacket and over-trousers and/or a survival garment,
e.g., an aluminised poncho.

10. The pack assembly according to claim 1, wherein the quick-opening
system of each second element of pouch type consists of a side access
provided with a grasp tab.

11. The pack assembly according to claim 9, wherein the action jacket, the
over-trousers and/or survival garment are provided with a grasp tab and
are arranged inside the second element of pouch type such that said grasp
tab is accessible from the side access (and facilitates the removal and
even the donning of the jacket, over-trousers and/or survival garment,
particularly, a poncho.

12. The pack assembly according to claim 1, wherein the inner surface of
the second elements of pouch type has a protective coating with low
friction coefficient, e.g., a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating.

13. The pack assembly according to claim 9, wherein the over-trousers
comprise fastening means so that they can be fastened to the frame, in
particular, on the outer surface of the straps.

14. The pack assembly according to further comprising at least one second
element of pouch type able to contain, as accessory, radio communication
apparatus, a topographical map, a compass, rations or small tooling, said
second element being fixed or fixable to the frame, in particular, to the
outer surface of a strap of shoulder strap type, e.g., on the front of
the carry pack assembly, or on the outer surface of a cross-strap.

15. The pack assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first or second
element of pouch type, as accessory, contains a visual and/or sound
signalling device.

16. The pack assembly according to claim 15, wherein the visual and/or
sound signalling device is connected to the quick-opening system of one
or all the second elements of pouch type containing safety gear and/or to
a system releasing the end piece of a respiratory protection device so
that the signalling device is triggered automatically as soon as the
quick-opening system is actuated.

17. The pack assembly according to claim 15, wherein the visual and/or
sound signalling device is associated with a multiple-function trigger
and is able to be remotely triggered non-selectively.

18. The pack assembly according to claim 1, wherein the carry frame, e.g.,
at least one of the straps of shoulder strap type or a cross-strap, is
provided with at least one ring or hook to hang small equipment items,
themselves fitted with a snap hook or ring, the ring or hook preferably
being protected by a protective flap to cover it when not in use and
which can be easily lifted when required.

19. The pack assembly according to claim 1, further comprising spacers,
e.g., fire-resistant foam pads arranged on the inner surface of the
frame, e.g., of the straps of shoulder strap type, preferably
substantially at the same level as the elements of pouch type.

20. The pack assembly according to claim 1, wherein the carry frame
comprises two side straps of shoulder strap type, and it comprises an
evacuation handle fixed to a cross-member extending between the two said
side straps in the upper part of the rear of said pack assembly.

21. The pack assembly according to claim 1, wherein, on the rear of the
frame, it comprises netting which extends, for example, between two
straps of shoulder strap type, in particular from the cross-member if
said pack assembly is equipped therewith.

Description:

[0001]This is a 371 national phase application of PCT/FR2006/000928 filed
26 Apr. 2006, claiming priority to French Patent Application No. FR
0506079 filed 15 Jun. 2005, the contents of which are incorporated herein
by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002]The present invention concerns the area of fire fighting. It more
specifically concerns a multifunctional carry pack assembly intended to
equip fire fighters, particularly when fighting fires in wildland areas
and any other activity requiring substantial self-sufficiency with no
possibility of relying on nearby logistic support.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003]Fire fighters called to fight such emergencies need to ensure their
personal protection by means of specific equipment. This equipment
differs in relation to the mission, the site and the time of action. A
fire fighter called to act must be able to choose to take a given item of
protective equipment in relation to these parameters. Therefore in order
to work in safety without being unnecessarily encumbered, fire fighters
need modular, individual equipment. Also, the equipment chosen for a
given task must be near at hand and immediately available in case of
need.

[0005]Finally, fire fighters facing fires in wildland areas must, for
safety reasons, be identifiable both on the ground and from the air, and
both during daytime and at night.

[0006]So that fire fighters have the ability to move whilst having at hand
any necessary specific equipment, document CA 2 424 778 has already
proposed a harness enabling fire fighters to wear a pack containing
necessary safety accessories and equipment, this pack being more
particularly the pack referenced M 1983 widely used on the North-American
continent.

[0007]This harness comprises a yoke assembly and a belt band assembly
provided with adjustment means to take into account the morphology of the
individual person, and fastening means of the M 1983 pack in the form of
a set of Y-straps starting at the rear of the belt assembly and fastening
onto the rear of the yoke assembly on the fire fighter's back.

[0008]The harness described in this document CA 2 424 778 certainly brings
progress but nonetheless has the major disadvantage of compelling a fire
fighter to remove the harness in order to open the pack and access
determined equipment or a determined accessory.

[0009]The purpose of the present invention is to propose a multifunctional
carry pack assembly for fire fighters which particularly meets the
requirements for fighting fires in wildland areas, and which additionally
overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantage.

[0010]This purpose is fully attained with a carry pack assembly which
comprises:

[0011]a) a carry frame intended to be carried on the torso and consisting
of straps, preferably at least two straps of shoulder strap type lying on
the shoulders, and at least one cross-strap joined to said shoulder type
straps and acting as belt,

[0012]b) a first element of pouch type, fixed or fixable to the carry
frame, able to contain at least one water reservoir, and a "hands free"
hydration system connected or connectable to said water reservoir, and

[0013]c) at least one second element of pouch type, fixed or fixable to
the carry frame and able to contain a protective, action or survival
garment, a protective mask and at least one other accessory.

[0014]Since the materials forming the frame and the elements of pouch type
are provided for a fire-fighting application, they are heat-resistant and
fireproof and must not represent any danger for the wearer. Preferably,
these materials are in aramid fibers.

[0015]Additionally, each second element of pouch type is provided with a
quick-opening system, giving a fire fighter direct access to its content,
without requiring removal of the carry frame.

[0016]Therefore, when fire fighters depart for action of determined type,
with the carry pack assembly of the present invention they are able to
take with them a water reservoir for self-hydration and all the equipment
they need using as support means the outer surface of the carry straps,
the water reservoir and said equipment being arranged in different
elements of pouch type which are fixed, depending on necessary volume,
either transversally on the frame, e.g., simultaneously on the shoulder
type straps, or longitudinally, e.g., on a single strap of shoulder strap
type or on a cross-strap.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017]Preferably, the first and/or second elements of pouch type are
fixable by easily detachable fastening means on the carry frame, so that
they can be easily unfastened from said frame, either to be simply
removed or to change their position on this same frame. This is the case
for example when all or part of the elements of pouch type carried on the
rear of the torso have to be transferred to the front, in particular to
enable a fire fighter to carry a heavy load on the back such as a
portable reel for long-length hose.

[0018]In one embodiment, the carry frame comprises two side straps
arranged in a U-shape and acting as shoulder straps. In another
embodiment, the shoulder type straps are arranged in a Y-shape.

[0019]According to one variant of embodiment, the first element of pouch
type is carried and fixed transversely on the outer surface of the frame,
e.g., on two side straps, in the upper part of the torso and preferably
on the back. Said first element containing the water reservoir is
connected to a so-called "hands-free" hydration system since the fire
fighter can access its content without having to perform any manual
operation. This system may consist of a fixed or fixable drinking tube on
the outer surface of the frame, e.g., on a side strap so that its end tip
is accessible and can be reached by the mouth. For hydration, all that is
needed is to bite the end tip of the drinking tube and to draw water from
the reservoir.

[0020]According to one variant of embodiment, the carry pack assembly
comprises respiratory protection gear placed at least in part of the
first or a second element of pouch type. Said respiratory protection
assembly may comprise a filtering system, e.g., a filtering cartridge
placed in a second element of pouch type, and a connecting tube
connecting the filtering system to an end connector. The end connector
may be a mouth piece or a mask which can be applied over the face, either
a "half mask" or "quarter mask" depending on its configuration. The
connecting tube is preferably fixed or fixable to a strap of shoulder
strap type, e.g., passing over the shoulder or across the side under the
fire fighter's arm. Said respiratory protection gear may solely comprise
a mask, a so-called exhalation mask, associated with a filtering
cartridge; in this case the assembly is entirely placed in a second
element of pouch type, preferably having a quick-opening system.

[0021]It is to be noted that in the above embodiment, in which the
filtering gas cartridge is connected to a connecting tube, said cartridge
can be housed in the same first element of pouch type containing a water
reservoir. In this case, the drinking tube of the water reservoir and the
connecting tube of the filtering gas cartridge are respectively fixed or
fixable on each of the side straps of shoulder strap type, on the
shoulders.

[0022]If the filtering gas cartridge remains fixed in the first or second
element of pouch type, it is important to take care that the air intake
cannot be blocked by a poncho or other protective clothing put on over
the device. In one variant of the invention, the filtering cartridge is
placed sideways in the pouch, the air intake being directed sideways. In
a second variant, a grating is arranged over the air intake of the
cartridge, to prevent sealed contact between a fabric and the cartridge,
e.g. a convex-shaped grating.

[0023]In one variant of embodiment, in a second element of pouch type the
carry pack assembly comprises an item of protective clothing, e.g., fire
apparel comprising jacket and over-trousers and/or a survival garment,
e.g., an aluminised poncho.

[0024]The jacket and over-trousers form an additional item of clothing
which a fire fighter may need to don over usual gear, should fire
fighting conditions require a higher level of protection.

[0025]Whether intended to contain an aluminised poncho or an additional
fire suit, said second element of pouch type comprises a quick-opening
system.

[0026]This quick-opening system advantageously consists of a side access
provided with a grasp tab. The fire fighter needs only to grasp the tab
and pull on it to open the side access.

[0027]Preferably, the poncho, action jacket or over-trousers and/or
survival garment are themselves provided with a grasp tab, and are
arranged inside the second element of pouch type so that said grasp tab
can be reached from the side access. Therefore once said access has been
opened, the fire fighter needs only to grasp this tab to take the
aluminised poncho and/or action jacket and/or over-trousers out of the
said element and put them on. This can be done quickly and automatically.
In particular, regarding the aluminised poncho, the presence of the grasp
tab facilitates the proper positioning of the poncho when it is being
donned.

[0028]Advantageously the inner surface of the second elements of pouch
type, which are part of the carry pack assembly according to the
invention, has a protective coating with low friction coefficient, e.g.,
a polytetrafluorethlyene coating (PTFE). This particular provision
facilitates the removal of the content from said second elements, and
ensures protection against anything which might fall inside said second
elements, in particular fire-fighting agents and water.

[0029]Concerning the additional item of clothing to be put over the usual
outfit or uniform, in a first embodiment the additional jacket and
over-trousers comprise assembly means able to cooperate together so that
they can be fastened to each other once they have been put on over the
usual outfit. In a second embodiment, only the over-trousers comprise
fastening means so that they can be fastened to the outer surface of the
straps of the carry pack assembly. Since action over-trousers generally
have shoulder straps, direct fastening onto the jacket or fastening onto
the straps of the carry pack assembly avoids the superimposition of
shoulder straps.

[0030]In one variant of embodiment, the carry pack assembly comprises at
least one second element of pouch type able to contain an accessory,
e.g., radio communication apparatus, topographic map, compass, food
rations, small tooling, said second element being fixed or fixable to the
outer surface of the frame, e.g., to a shoulder type strap, for example
on the front of the carry pack assembly, or on the outer surface of a
cross-strap.

[0031]Preferably, two second elements are fixed to the frame, on the
torso, and contain the components of a portable radio transceiver, one of
said second elements comprising an opening through which the antenna of
said transceiver can be passed.

[0032]According to one variant of embodiment, the first or second element
of pouch type comprises a visual and/or sound signalling device. The
presence of this device provides improved location of a fire fighter who
has momentarily moved away from his colleagues.

[0033]In one embodiment, this device is connected to the quick-opening
system of one or all of the second elements of pouch type containing
safety items, and/or of the system releasing the end connector of the
breathing apparatus, so that this signalling device is automatically
triggered as soon as the quick-opening system is actuated, thereby
signalling to colleagues or the person in charge that the fire fighter is
in danger. In another embodiment, this signalling device is associated
with a multiple-function trigger, and can be remotely and non-selectively
triggered by any wearer of the same type of equipment. Therefore, a
wearer who presses shortly on a first trigger button of the equipment
can, for example, cause all nearby visual signalling devices to function
for fast location of fire fighters working in the vicinity. This same
wearer who presses for a longer time on the same first trigger button
can, for example, activate the visual and sound signalling systems of
nearby signalling devices. This visual and sound message, once coded by
the users, can be used to signal an urgent action to be performed such as
immediate return to the fire engines, e.g., to allow an aircraft to drop
water. The sound message may consist of a modulated ring, even a
synthesis message clearly expressing the expected action. A second button
can be used to quit the message and replace the trigger in standby mode.
A third button can be used only to switch on one's own visual signalling
device, to indicate one's position.

[0034]In one variant of embodiment the visual and/or sound signalling
device has three different transmitting/receiving channels. Therefore in
a sector comprising three teams working side by side, a different channel
can be allocated to each team. When used, this device allows for
non-interference between the teams.

[0035]The proposed visual and/or sound signalling device therefore
provides for simple, efficient communication between each fire fighter,
which brings considerable progress since teams generally only have one
portable radio set per engine.

[0036]In one variant of embodiment, on the front of the carry pack
assembly, at least one of the straps, e.g., a shoulder strap type or a
cross-strap is provided with at least one hook or ring to hang small
equipment items, themselves fitted with a snap hook or ring. This may be
used, for example, to hang a torch, gloves. Advantageously the ring or
hook arranged on the outer surface of the strap is protected by a
protective flap so that it is covered when not in use, and which can
easily be lifted when needed.

[0037]Preferably the straps are also provided with loops to hold any small
items of equipment tight against the strap so that they do not sway
around when the wearer is in movement.

[0038]In one variant of embodiment, spacers, e.g., fire-resistant foam
pads are arranged on the inner surface of the straps, the shoulder straps
in particular, preferably substantially at the same level as the pouch
elements. The primary function of these spacers is allow air to circulate
in the space between the carry pack assembly and the wearer's back for
improved comfort.

[0039]In one variant of embodiment, the carry pack assembly comprises an
evacuation handle which is fixed to a cross-member extending between two
side straps of shoulder strap type, in the upper part of the rear of said
pack assembly. This handle facilitates the transport of an injured fire
fighter equipped with the carry pack assembly.

[0040]Preferably the carry pack assembly comprises netting on the rear
which extends between the straps, the shoulder type straps in particular,
which starts at the cross-member if such is provided.

[0041]Preferably, the carry pack assembly and optionally the over-trousers
and action jacket are in a colour which offers major contrast with the
wildland, so that fire fighters are strongly visible in the midst of
vegetation, this colour being red, orange-red or yellow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042]The present invention will be better understood on reading the
description of a preferred example of embodiment of a multi-functional
carry pack assembly for fire fighters, more particularly intended for
fighting fires propagating in wildland, illustrated by the appended
drawings in which:

[0043]FIG. 1 is a very schematic, perspective illustration of a pack
assembly comprising a first element and two second elements of pouch type
mounted on the rear of the actual carry frame, and having a second
element of pouch type mounted on the front of the frame,

[0044]FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a permanent uniform jacket over
which the carry pack assembly of FIG. 1 has been fitted.

[0045]FIG. 3 is a schematic, plan, overhead view of a first element of
pouch type comprising a water reservoir and its drinking tube, a
filtering cartridge, its connecting tube and its breathing mask, and
finally a visual signalling device and its actuating commands.

[0046]FIG. 4 is a schematic, plan, overhead view of a variant of
embodiment of the first element of pouch type as shown FIG. 3, with the
breathing mask and the entire connecting tube which are housed inside
said first element, being accessible via an access shown in closed
position.

[0047]FIG. 5 is a partial view of the first element of pouch type as shown
FIG. 4, illustrating the opening of the access orifice.

[0049]The carry pack assembly 1 shown FIG. 1 comprises a carry frame
comprising two side straps 2 and 3, arranged in a U-shape and acting as
shoulder straps, two cross-straps 4, 4' joined to the side straps 2 and
3, of which one 4 joined to the ends of the side straps 2, 3 acts as
belt. The straps 2, 3, 4, 4' are made in fire-resistant yarn, e.g.,
aramid; they are sufficiently heat-stable to remain intact at relatively
high temperatures. Also, said straps are sized not only to withstand the
weight of the accessories, e.g., in the order of 5 kg, but also to
withstand the transport of an injured fire fighter who wears the assembly
1 and who has lost consciousness.

[0050]This carry pack assembly 1 is intended to be worn on the torso, as
shown FIG. 2, in particular over a permanent jacket 16 that is part of a
service uniform, or a jacket specifically adapted for forest fires.

[0051]The carry pack assembly 1 comprises a first element of pouch type
hereinafter called a first pouch 5, able to contain a reservoir of
drinking water 22 intended for hydration of the fire fighter when in
action. This first pouch 5 is fixed to the outer surface of the two side
straps 2, 3 in the upper part of the back, so that the water reservoir 22
lies constantly at an angle.

[0052]The reservoir of drinking water 22 preferably has a capacity of
between one and two liters. Also, its shape is such that all the liquid
contained therein can be accessed via a drinking tube 6. In one preferred
embodiment, said water reservoir 22 is of triangular shape, the tube 6
dipping into the downward facing tip of the reservoir 22.

[0053]In the illustrated example, the first pouch 5 comprises two side
extensions 5a, 5b extending towards and fastened to the outer surface of
two side straps 2, 3 over the shoulders. The drinking tube 6, whose
distal end is dipped into the bottom of the water reservoir 22, has a
proximal end 6a projecting from a side extension 5a, and which is angled,
for example, so that it faces towards the wearer's face and can be
directly accessed by the fire fighter for hydration. It is desirable for
the length of this proximal end 6a, either in its part outside the side
extension 5a or in its part that is not fixed to the strap 2, to be as
short as possible to reduce the risk that it might get caught in
branches, for example, when moving in a difficult environment.

[0054]The inner sealed part of the water reservoir 22 is made a food-safe
material, e.g., PTFE, so that heat does not cause any toxic release into
the liquid.

[0055]For practical reasons, it is important that fire fighters should be
able to remove the pouch 5 containing the water reservoir 22 unassisted,
should it need refilling, even if it is carried on the back. This is made
possible, for example, by means of a fastening system added to the front
of the frame, such as two "retainers" passing either side of the neck on
the shoulders. In this case, by unfastening one of the two retainers and
passing it behind the head, the pouch 5 comes to lie in the front and
still remains supported.

[0056]The water reservoir 22 contains a filling orifice closed by a
stopper 23. Filling can be performed either by removing the reservoir 22
from the first pouch 5 then putting it back in place once filled, or by
using an outside supply source from which water can be injected into the
water reservoir 22 via the filling orifice, without having to remove it
from the first pouch 5. In this latter case, to access the stopper, an
access opening is provided in the pouch. Water can be injected by
siphoning from a water reservoir using suitable tubing. The opening
giving access to the filling stopper, or the opening formed in the pouch
to remove the reservoir for filling and replacement, is preferably
positioned on the inner side of the pouch, i.e., the surface facing the
user. When the user wishes to refill the reservoir, one of the two side
extensions 5a 5b is released from the corresponding side strap 2, 3, then
the pouch 5 is caused to pivot by passing it towards the front making
said opening, which then faces outwardly, directly accessible.

[0057]According to one variant of embodiment, housed in all of part of the
first pouch 5 or in a second element of pouch type hereinafter called
second pouch, the carry pack assembly comprises a respiratory protection
device intended to supply emergency breathing protection.

[0058]In one first embodiment, the respiratory protection device consists
of a filtering system 7, e.g., a filtering cartridge housed in a first 5
or second 11 pouch and a connecting tube 9 ending in a breathing end
piece 8, said connecting tube 9 being arranged such that the end piece 8
is easily accessible to the fire fighter who is able to apply it to the
mouth or face. In the illustrated example, the filtering cartridge 7 is
carried on the back in the first pouch 5, and the connecting tube 9 is
arranged on the shoulder over a side strap 2, even in the case shown over
the side extension 5b of the first pouch 5. It is sufficiently long so
that it can reach the fire fighter's mouth. It can also be placed on the
side under the fire fighter's arm. With this arrangement it is possible
to save precious seconds in the event of danger. In the case when the
filtering cartridge 7 is housed in the first pouch 5 containing the water
reservoir 22, the drinking tube 6 for the water reservoir 22 and the
connecting tube 9 of the filtering gas cartridge 7 are respectively fixed
or fixable either directly on either of the side straps 2, 3 on the
shoulders, or indirectly via side extensions 5a, 5b which themselves are
fastened to the side straps 2, 3 on the shoulders.

[0059]As shown FIG. 5, the end piece 8 of the connecting tube 9 can be
protected by a protective flap 24. The flap 24 is fitted with a
quick-opening system, e.g., provided with self-clinging hook and loop
elements or pressure studs.

[0060]Preferably the flap 24 is joined via a cord 10 to a percussion
system of the filtering cartridge 10. When the fire fighter pulls the
flap 24 forwards, this pulls on the cord 10 which causes percussion of
the filtering cartridge 7.

[0061]Among the different types of existing end pieces 8: mask, half mask,
quarter mask or mouth piece, it is the mouth piece which is the most
practical and the fastest applied since the wearing of a mask or half
mask requires fire fighters to remove their helmets, if their helmets do
not comprise a compatible integrated system. However, with a mouth piece
it is preferable to complete the respiratory protection device with a
nose clip, e.g., attached by a line towards the end of the connecting
tube 9, to be placed on the nose to avoid any accidental breathing via
the nose.

[0062]In addition, the respiratory protection device comprises a valve
system allowing air from the air intake of the filtering system, the
filtering cartridge in particular, to be inhaled and allowing exhaled air
to escape.

[0063]In a second embodiment, the respiratory device 8 is an independent
system, for example, an exhalation mask which comprises a mask connected
directly to a filtering cartridge. This is placed in the carry pack
assembly in a second pouch 11, 12 with quick-opening system, so that it
can be easily grasped and quickly applied by the fire fighter in the
event of danger.

[0064]In all cases, firstly the first or second pouch must preferably
comprise an air passage facing the air inlet of the filtering cartridge,
and secondly the arrangement of the filtering cartridge 7 must be
compatible with the wearing of a poncho or other protective clothing
which may be put on over the carry pack assembly 1. To prevent a poncho
or other garment from coming to lie up against the air intake of the
cartridge 7, this cartridge is arranged with its air intake directed
sideward as illustrated FIG. 1. Another option consists of providing a
grating, in particular a curved grating, over the opening of the air
passage which allows air to access even if the first or second pouch is
covered by a material.

[0065]When fighting wildland fires, it may be necessary to have a higher
level of protection, in particular a fire-fighting jacket 17 and
over-trousers 18 and/or a poncho, which fire fighters may have to put on
over their permanent outfit.

[0066]Recent developments in new materials have brought very light and
very flexible action clothing. With the carry pack assembly of the
invention, it can therefore be envisaged to carry this additional
clothing in a second pouch, for use when needed. If additional action
clothing is to be worn, fire fighters can then don this clothing over the
carry pack assembly 1 without any assistance and without any lengthy
manual operation.

[0067]For this purpose the carry pack assembly 1 comprises a protective
item of clothing carried in a second pouch 11, 12, comprising a jacket 17
and over-trousers 18 and/or a survival garment such as an aluminised
poncho. Preferably this second pouch is fastened onto the dorsal part of
the carry frame, at a height between the lower part and middle part of
the back so that it is easy to remove the equipment from this pouch. Each
of the second pouches 11, 12 comprises a quick-opening system consisting
of a side access 13, 14 provided with a grasp tab 15, 15'. Preferably the
poncho, additional action jacket 17 or over-trousers 18 are themselves
provided with a grasp tab and are arranged inside the second pouch such
that said grasp tab is accessible from the side access 13, 14. Therefore
once said access is opened, the fire fighter need only take hold of this
grasp tab to remove the aluminised poncho and/or additional jacket 17
and/or over-trousers 18 from the said element and put it on.

[0068]The inner surface of each first and/or second pouch 5, 11, 12 has a
coating with low friction coefficient, e.g., a polytetrafluorethylene
coating (PTFE). This special provision makes it easier to remove the
contents from the pouches, and ensures protection against possible
ingression of water or other agents used for fire fighting in particular.

[0069]In one variant of embodiment not shown, the breathing device is
placed in the same second pouch as the aluminised poncho and/or
additional jacket 17 and/or over-trousers 18.

[0070]The additional action jacket 17 is light, its weight preferably not
exceeding 1.4 kg. It is made in a flexible fabric and has no protective
foam. Its colour contrasts with the environment, e.g., red for better
visibility in particular to be seen from the sky. It is to be noted that
a fairly bright colour also has the advantage of being less absorbent to
sun rays than a dark colour, such as navy blue for example which is
traditionally used in numerous countries for fire fighters' uniforms.
Therefore the use of a bright colour is advisable for fighting wildland
fires which generally occur during the Summer season. Since the action
jacket 17 is intended to be worn over the carry pack assembly 1, it is
provided with a gusset in the back. Preferably it does not have any
pockets since the carry pack assembly 1 provides a sufficient number of
storage possibilities.

[0071]The space provided for stowing the jacket 17 can be as small as
approximately 30 cm wide for a height of 15 cm and depth of 15 cm. The
fabric used to manufacture the jacket 17 may be a grade 2 material
according to standard EN 469. This standard allows approval of a given
item of clothing giving consideration to the garments worn underneath. In
the specific case of forest fire fighting, draft standard ISO 15384
already requires the wearing of an item of clothing made in
fire-resistant material. It is then preferable, in this case, to use an
approved action jacket which takes into account the outfit worn
underneath, since it will therefore by thinner, less cumbersome when
folded away, lighter and more comfortable.

[0072]The space provided for stowing the over-trousers 18 is also very
reduced, e.g., a width of around 30 cm for a height and depth of around
10 cm respectively. Over-trousers 18 consisting of a single layer of
fabric having an approximate gram weight of 200 to 240 g/m2 which,
depending on the fabric used, meets the grade 1 requirements of standard
EN 469 standard when worn over trousers approved under standard ISO
15384, weighs approximately 400 to 500 g.

[0073]In a first embodiment, the additional jacket 17 and the
over-trousers 18 comprise assembly means 19, 19', for example in FIG. 6
three sections of shoulder straps sewn on the inner surfaces of the
jacket and over-trousers, whose free ends are provided with respective
male 19a and female 19'a fastening parts, able to cooperate by
press-fitting to allow assembly of one to the other once they have been
donned over the uniform jacket 16.

[0074]In a second embodiment, only the over-trousers 18 comprise assembly
means 19' so that they can be joined onto the outer surface of the side
straps 2, 3 of the carry pack assembly 1, at the height of fastening
means 19'' which, in FIG. 1, are sections of shoulder straps provided
with male assembly parts 19'' a similar to those described in the first
embodiment. This solution has the advantage, with respect to the shoulder
straps 19 integrated in the jacket 17, that it does not create the risk
of crushing the equipment carried on the carry pack assembly 1.

[0075]Concerning the poncho which can be stowed away in a second pouch 11,
12, this equipment is made in a fire-resistant aluminised fabric of much
the same volume as the over-trousers 18. The weight of the aluminised
poncho is around 800 g. As explained above, the arrangement of the poncho
allows for quick, reliable grasping by means of a tab or hand grasp
integrated in the bottom part of the poncho, and quick donning; once
removed, the poncho continues to be held by the hand grasp for donning.

[0076]The carry pack assembly 1 illustrated FIG. 1 comprises other second
pouches 20, 25 able to contain an accessory, for example, radio
communication apparatus or topographical map, the pouches being fixed or
fixable on the outer surface of a single side strap 2, 3, for example, on
the front part of the carry pack assembly, or on the outer surface of a
cross-strap 4, 4'. Provision may be made for other second pouches 26 hung
on the front of one of the side straps 2, 3 and intended to contain small
items of equipment: compass, first aid kit, food rations, small tooling.

[0077]A special pouch for the topographical map is particularly practical
if said map can be consulted without having to open it up. For example, a
pouch will be preferred in which a map can be arranged, opened out on two
flaps having a window allowing the reading of almost the entirety of
these two flaps. This pouch may be folded in two when not in use, for its
protection. This pouch, fixed in its upper part to the cross strap acting
as belt, allows easy consultation of the map using one hand only.

[0078]In one variant of embodiment not shown, the side straps 2, 3
positioned on the wearer's torso comprise two second pouches offering a
stowage volume able to contain a portable radio transceiver whose antenna
can project outside the pocket via an opening provided for this purpose
without hampering the wearer.

[0079]Concerning the different second pouches 20, 25, 26 hanging from a
single strap, these are made fire-resistant fabric, e.g., aramid of gram
weight between 200 and 250 g/m2. These pouches may also be in
laminated or PTFE-coated fabric to protect the equipment contained
therein against the weather and also to facilitate removal of this
equipment.

[0080]In the example illustrated FIG. 1, the first pouch 5 comprises a
visual and/or sound signalling device 21. The presence of this device 21
improves the locating of a fire fighter who may have momentarily moved
away from colleagues.

[0081]Preferably this device 21 is connected to the quick-opening system
of one or more pouches containing safety elements and/or to the system
releasing the end piece of the protective respiratory apparatus, so that
it is automatically triggered thereby signalling to colleagues that the
fire fighter is in danger, needing either to put on a protective element
or to grasp the end piece of the breathing apparatus. This signalling
device 21 could also be fitted with a trigger which could be remotely
actuated, and non-selectively, by any wearer of the same type of
equipment. Therefore a wearer who presses shortly on a first button of
the multifunction trigger of the equipment would set in operation all
nearby visual signalling devices, for rapid location of fire fighters
working in the vicinity. This same wearer, when pressing for a longer
time on the same first button, could activate visual and sound signals of
nearby signalling devices. This visual and sound message, once coded by
users, could signify an urgent action to be performed, e.g., immediate
return to the engines. A second button on the trigger could quit the
information and reset the device in standby mode. A third button of the
trigger would only light up one's own visual signalling device so as to
signal one's position.

[0082]Concerning the visual signalling device, this may be an xenon
flasher or "flash lamp" which can be activated in several manners.

[0083]Evidently, in one simplified embodiment the signalling device 21 may
only be triggered manually by the wearer of the carry pack assembly, so
that the wearer can signal a difficulty or merely signal position if
moving in an ill-lit location or separated from the others, e.g., to
monitor a portable motor pump supplying a long length hose. In this case,
it comprises a simple manual command of on/off type.

[0084]The side of the carry pack assembly 1 illustrated FIG. 1 also
comprises a hook system 31 integrated in the cross-strap 4 acting as
belt, e.g., to carry fire fighting gloves.

[0085]On the front of the carry pack assembly 1 at least one of the side
straps 2, 3 or cross straps 4, 4' is provided with at least one ring or
hook 28, e.g., to hang small items of equipment, themselves fitted with a
snap hook or ring. These may be used for example to hang a torch or
gloves. Advantageously the ring or hook 28 arranged on the outer surface
of the strap 2, 3 is protected by a protective flap which covers it when
not in use, and can easily be folded back when required.

[0086]The side straps also have loops so that any equipment hung thereupon
can be held flat against the strap so that they do not sway around when
the wearer is in movement.

[0087]Preferably the carry pack assembly, the over-trousers and the
fire-fighting jacket are in a color which greatly contrasts with the
natural environment, so that fire fighters are largely visible in the
midst of vegetation, e.g., a red, orange-red or yellow colour.

[0088]Spaces 29, 29', for example, fire-resistant foam pads, are arranged
on the inner surface of the side straps 2, 3 preferably substantially at
the same level as the first element or elements of pouch type.

[0089]The carry pack assembly 1 in FIG. 1 comprises an evacuation handle
30 which is fixed to a cross-member 31 extending between the two side
straps 2, 3 in the upper part of the rear of said pack assembly. This
handle 30 could facilitate the transport of an injured fire fighter
wearing this pack assembly.

[0090]The carry pack assembly 1 in FIG. 1 comprises netting 27 on the rear
part which extends between the two side straps 2, 3 in particular from
the cross-member if said pack assembly comprises the same. This netting
27 is preferably in open mesh fabric in fire-resistant material, e.g.,
aramid.

[0091]The use of the carry pack assembly 1 provides a fire fighter with
numerous advantages. First it ensure basic functions when fighting
wildland fires, namely: [0092]hydration, by means of the water
reservoir and its drinking tube; [0093]emergency respiratory protection
by means of the breathing apparatus; [0094]fire-approach heat protection
comprising the additional jacket and over-trousers and/or aluminised
poncho; [0095]signalling and/or communication by means of the signalling
device.

[0096]Additionally, it is particularly modular since fire fighters are
able to take the elements needed in relation to the mission at hand, its
location and time of action, and also since the positioning of said
elements can be modified, notably at the front or rear in relation to
mission-related constraints.